All the signs have pointed to pregnancy. Your dog has lost her appetite, changed behavior, shown a decrease in energy level, gained a super appetite and gained weight. You took her to the veterinarian, where an ultrasound was performed. Sure enough, she is carrying a litter of puppies. So, now what do you do?

Your veterinarian should have given you informational brochures or pointers about caring for your pregnant pooch. If you have any questions, then do not be afraid to call and ask the vet! If you know someone who breeds animals, then that person can also act as an adviser if you have any concerns.

When humans get pregnant, they start taking vitamin supplements left and right. You should not give your dog supplements. The change in diet (mentioned later) will provide enough nutrition. The additional vitamins (especially calcium) in your dog's body can cause problems during and after pregnancy. If your vet recommends a supplement, then do some research before you hand it off to your dog. There are other ways to make sure your pooch gets an adequate amount of nutrients in her diet.

As a general rule, your pet can keep her routine diet during the first month. She may experience an increase in appetite, so it is important that you allow her extra food. However, don't let your dog have an all-you-can-eat buffet at every meal. After the first 30 days of pregnancy, then you should switch your pooch over to a puppy food diet. Try to gradually ease her into the new diet over a few days. Puppy food has plenty of nutrients to satisfy your dog's needs. It also provides extra calories to take care of the little ones. Always have plenty of water available to your dog. Pregnancy requires large amounts of fluid, and your dog needs to stay hydrated.

Exercise is still important! Even if your pooch isn't pregnant, she should always get plenty of regular exercise. Don't take her to run a marathon, but do provide plenty of play time. Take her on daily, non-exhaustive walks, and spend time playing outside. As the pregnancy progresses, you should continue the walks; however, they should gradually shorten. A thirty minute walk is ideal for a pregnant pooch.

If your dog is in need of a vaccination, then now is not a good time. Before breeding is okay, because the strengthened antibodies can be passed from mother to pup. Vaccinating during pregnancy, however, can cause delivery complications and possibly abortion.

As delivery time gets closer, start preparing a place for your pet to have her pups. A box, known as a whelping box, is a good place to start. The box should have sides tall enough so that the puppies cannot escape, while the mother should be able to safely exit the box. Cover the bottom of the box with old towels and blankets to make it comfortable for your pooch. Many breeders suggest making a ledge near the bottom of the box. The ledge provides protection for the puppies in case the mom accidentally lays on them. It is natural for a female dog to "nest" before she delivers, so pay attention to any other areas around the house where she may go. Get her familiar with the whelping box, so that she will not be afraid when the time comes.

You should start taking your pooch's temperature rectally a week before her due date. This will help you determine when her puppies are coming. Keep a log of her daily temperature. A normal temperature will be between 100 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. Twenty four hours before your pooch goes into labor, her rectal temperature will drop two or more degrees. Cancel the dinner plans; it looks like you are about to deliver pups!

You have confirmed that your pet is pregnant. The signs are there and the vet verified the presence of little ones. There's not much for you to do during the first month of your pooch's pregnancy. She should stay on the same diet and continue to exercise. As the pregnancy progresses, her food intake will increase and her diet should change to puppy food. Never provide supplements or give vaccination to your pregnant pup, because this can lead to pregnancy complications. As the time gets close, help your dog prepare by creating a comfortable delivery place. By checking her temperature daily, you will know when the puppies are on their way!